Yes. All major cruise lines will let you buy drinks on an a la carte basis when cruising. You don't need a drinks package to be able to drink alcoholic beverages or any other type of beverage on a ship.

Yes, you can absolutely buy alcohol on a cruise without a drink package by paying on an "à la carte" basis. Every drink you order at a bar, in a lounge, or at dinner will be charged to your onboard account (using your room key/wristband). This is often the most cost-effective choice for 2026 travelers who only enjoy one or two drinks per day. Standard beer prices typically range from $7 to $9, while cocktails and glasses of wine cost between $12 and $18, plus a mandatory 18-20% gratuity. To determine if a "Drink Package" (which can cost $60 to $100 per day) is worth it, you generally need to consume at least 6 to 8 alcoholic beverages every single day. If you are a light drinker or plan to spend a lot of time off the ship in ports, "paying as you go" is the much smarter financial move. Additionally, many cruise lines allow you to bring one or two bottles of wine on board at embarkation for free, which you can enjoy in your cabin to further save on costs throughout the voyage.